Acura ILX production sedan debuts at Chicago auto show

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Acura unveiled the production version of the 2013 ILX compact sedan at the Chicago auto show on Wednesday, saying the vehicle will be an entry point into Honda's luxury brand.

The five-passenger sedan will offer three engine choices, including Acura's first gasoline-electric hybrid.

The base ILX will be powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 150 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission offered is a five-speed automatic. Fuel economy in that model is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Upgraded models will get a 2.4-liter engine with 201 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm. A six-speed manual will be an option on the upgraded model. Fuel economy decreases a tad, to 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Acura's first hybrid model will use Honda's 1.5-liter engine with its Integrated Motor Assist electric motor. It will be paired with a continuously variable transmission, returning an estimated 38 mpg on the highway. Together, the gasoline and electric motors can produce 111 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. The ILX hybrid features regenerative braking and stop/start technology to save fuel and replenish the battery.

The ILX uses MacPherson struts in front with a multilink setup in the rear. The car includes Amplitude Reactive Dampers. The dampers operate in two modes to provide comfort when cruising and precision handling when needed. The ILX will use an adaptive electric power-steering system.

Like all Acura models, the ILX will come well equipped from the factory. Both Technology and Premium packages will be offered, along with a long list of safety features.

The ILX is built at the company's Greensburg, Ind., plant and will go on sale in spring. Pricing hasn't been announced, but Acura said the ILX will start at less than $30,000.